DVLA Rule Change Warning for Anyone with a Car Over 40 Years Old

The DVLA recently introduced a rule change that affects vehicles over 40 years old in the UK. Previously, cars over 40 years old were exempt from the MOT test, but this rule has now changed. Starting from May 2022, vehicles over 40 years old may still need to undergo an MOT test depending on whether they have been substantially modified. The exemption only applies to vehicles that have not been significantly altered from their original factory specification.

What Does the Rule Change Mean? Under the new regulations, cars that are over 40 years old and have undergone significant modifications will now be required to take the MOT test, even if they were previously exempt. This change applies to classic cars, vintage vehicles, and other older cars that may have been modified for performance, safety, or aesthetic reasons.

The rule change is part of an effort to ensure that even older vehicles, which may be in pristine condition or have historical value, are still roadworthy and meet current safety and emissions standards. If your car is over 40 years old but has not been significantly modified, you may still qualify for the MOT exemption. However, it is essential to ensure that your vehicle meets the legal requirements for exemption, as modifications can now affect this.

Why Has This Change Been Made? The goal of this change is to make sure that classic and vintage cars that have been heavily modified are still tested for roadworthiness. Over the years, many car enthusiasts and collectors have modified older vehicles for improved performance or safety, and these modifications could affect the vehicle's ability to meet modern standards. The MOT test ensures that such cars are still safe to drive and meet emissions standards.

If you’re unsure whether your classic or vintage car qualifies for the MOT exemption or has been modified, it’s a good idea to have it checked. You can use our MOT Check tool to verify your vehicle's MOT history and ensure that it meets all legal requirements.

What Should You Do If Your Vehicle Is Affected? If your car has been modified, or if you want to ensure it complies with the new MOT regulations, the best course of action is to have it inspected at an approved MOT test centre. The MOT will assess the vehicle for safety, emissions, and roadworthiness. You can also consider having your vehicle serviced regularly to ensure that it remains in good condition.

Conclusion If you own a car over 40 years old, it’s important to stay informed about the DVLA’s rule changes and whether they impact your vehicle’s MOT requirements. If your car has been modified, it may now need to undergo the MOT test to remain roadworthy. Use the MOT Check tool to track your vehicle’s status and ensure you comply with the new regulations.